CVE-2015-0025 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 10 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted web site, aka "Internet Explorer Memory Corruption Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-0023.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/09/2022
Microsoft Internet Explorer 10 contains a critical memory corruption vulnerability that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service conditions through maliciously crafted web content. This vulnerability represents a distinct issue from CVE-2015-0023 and specifically targets memory management mechanisms within the browser's rendering engine. The flaw occurs when Internet Explorer processes specially crafted web pages that trigger improper memory handling during content rendering, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential system compromise. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory boundary checking within the browser's JavaScript engine and HTML parser components.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves crafting web content that manipulates memory structures in ways that bypass normal security controls and access restrictions. Attackers can leverage this flaw by hosting malicious web pages that, when loaded in Internet Explorer 10, cause memory corruption that can be leveraged for code execution. The memory corruption typically manifests through buffer overflows, use-after-free conditions, or other memory management errors that allow attackers to overwrite critical memory regions. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The exploitation process often requires precise control over memory layout and may involve techniques such as return-oriented programming or other advanced exploitation methods.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service to include complete system compromise and potential data theft. When successfully exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the logged-in user, potentially leading to full system control. This risk is particularly severe in enterprise environments where users may have elevated privileges or access to sensitive corporate data. The vulnerability affects Windows operating systems running Internet Explorer 10, including Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2008 R2 systems. Organizations utilizing these platforms face significant exposure as the vulnerability can be exploited through standard web browsing activities without requiring any special privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to protect against this vulnerability. Immediate mitigation involves applying Microsoft security updates and patches that address the specific memory corruption issues in Internet Explorer 10. Organizations should also consider implementing browser isolation techniques, network-based security controls, and user education programs to reduce exposure risk. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and following security best practices as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework for browser exploitation techniques. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing application whitelisting, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing help identify potential exploitation vectors and ensure that security controls remain effective against evolving threats in the cybersecurity landscape.